SynopsisA humble and simple Takezo abandons his life as a knight errant. He's sought as a teacher and
vassal by Shogun, Japan's most powerful clan leader. He's also challenged to fight by the supremely
confident and skillful Sasaki Kojiro. Takezo agrees to fight Kojiro in a year's time but rejects Shogun's
patronage, choosing instead to live on the edge of a village, raising vegetables. He's followed there by Otsu
and later by Akemi, both in love with him. The year ends as Takezo assists the villagers against a band of
brigands. He seeks Otsu's forgiveness and accepts her love, then sets off across the water to Ganryu
Island for his final contest.